Manchester-based training provider, Mantra Learning, recently hosted an open day exclusively for girls at its Logistics Academy, with the aim of demonstrating that a career in the logistics sector is not exclusive to males.
Almost 30 girls attended from Manchester Communications Academy, Manchester Creative and Media Academy, and Waterhead Academy.
The day began with a video detailing the huge variety of job roles available, followed by presentations from guest speakers. In an inspiring talk, Lesley O’Brien, of Freightlink Europe, explained how her career had progressed from an administration role in a small haulage business to director of a multi-national logistics operation.
The second speaker, Sally Hall, began working in logistics only recently, but has already achieved a great deal and, at the age of 21, has reached a senior transport position at Bunton Plant Hire Ltd.
Both speakers gave a personal account of how they have progressed professionally to benefit from opportunities for advancement in the sector.
Mark Currie, chief executive of Mantra Learning, commented: “The logistics sector offers tremendous opportunities for young people of both genders and our two speakers [today] have clearly demonstrated that women can succeed just as well as men.
“The problem is that young people today are simply not aware of great career options that are available in the sector – whether that’s LGV driving, transport planning, importing/ exporting, warehousing, motor vehicle maintenance, finance, marketing, or customer service, to name just a few.”
The Road Haulage Association’s Edna Gill, said: ‘We were delighted to support the women in logistics event. It’s encouraging that the sector is recognised as a career choice for women of all ages. It was heartening to see the enthusiasm from the girls and to hear that some would be contacting their schools to change their work experience choices to logistics.”
Mark continued: “For a young person, the best route to consider is an apprenticeship, where they can learn the business from the bottom up and, at the same time, earn a wage.”
Following the event, 99 per cent of girls said they had a much better understanding of the sector and over two thirds said they would definitely consider a career in the sector, compared with just one of the girls saying so at the beginning of the day.
Mantra is currently taking applications from this year’s school leavers to join its Logistics Academy Programme, starting in the summer. It offers a 12-week pathway to apprenticeship programme, which includes a practical skills training course at Mantra, followed by six weeks’ work experience with a local employer.
For further information visit: www.thelogisticsacademy.co.uk
Richard Weston, marketing manager
Tel: 0161 653 5767
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